Tropical Depression East of the Philippines Continues to Develop

Tropical Depression 98W, or Bagyong Dante as it is called by PAGASA, continues to slowly consolidate as it moves across the waters east of the Philippines. The system right now is located about 800km east of the island of Luzon. Winds are around 40 to 60kph. TD 98W is currently moving northward at a speed of 20kph.

IR Image from NRLMRY

Latest satellite image shows 98W with improving convective activity and a core that continues to show signs of improvement. East of the system, converging winds are spawning rains and thunderstorms that could affect parts of Guam and Micronesia. Meanwhile, the southwesterly flow that feeds into the circulation of this depression is producing widespread rains across the Philippines. Areas across Visayas and Mindanao may see prolonged rains today which could cause flooding and even landslides.

Computer models continue to show TD 98W moving northward and not directly affecting the Philippines. Atmospheric conditions will remain somewhat favorable and there is a good chance of this system becoming a Tropical Storm in the near future. Model consensus also show a track that could impact parts of Japan by early next week.

We’ll have continuous updates throughout the day on this development tropical system.